Join the gang as they toast to 2025's greatest hits: Ben earning the coveted "you are a badass MF" landing review from his wife, Brian discovering his Cherokee is indeed "the Toyota Camry of the skies" when loaded with three dudes and camera gear, and Ted conquering his first real Rockies crossings. Plus, the moment we've all been waiting for - The Thaden Invasion is officially happening March 13-15, 2026 in Bentonville, Arkansas!
Expect the usual "personal responsibility themed gathering" where "we're all grownups, figure it out," brewery meetups are "a foregone conclusion," and someone will inevitably need a rescue mission. Brian's setting ambitious 2026 goals involving actual instrument training, Ben wants to fly "somebody else's airplane while not incurring the expenses" (relatable), and the crew reflects on why this community has become their "daily sustenance."
Warning: Contains gratitude, aviation wisdom, and Ted admitting he "really needed to smoke" during the Tango 82 live show moment.
Mentioned on the show:
* Stranger Things (TV): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stranger_Things
* George Carlin, Stuff: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4rhVQCzF3r0
* Freedom Aviation Network: https://www.freedomaviationnetwork.org/
* M54 - Lebanon Airport: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lebanon_Municipal_Airport_(Tennessee)
* Southwest Georgia Regional Airport (Albany, Georgia): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Southwest_Georgia_Regional_Airport
* Benalla, Victoria, Australia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Benalla
* Kangaroo Island, Australia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kangaroo_Island
* Moontown Airport, Huntsville Ala: https://www.moontownairport.com/
* RYY - Cobb County - Steakhouse: https://www.elevationatlanta.com/
* Checkmate Aviation has a youtube channel now! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7GL6_2RZdZU
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